First Kill - Book Review - Book Trailer

Title ~ First Kill
Series ~ The Slayers Chronicles #1
Author ~ Heather Brewer
Release Date ~ September 20, 2011
Age Group ~ Middle Grade
Publisher ~ Penguin
Source ~ Penguin

SUMMARY FROM ARC JACKET

Joss Mcmillan’s perfect life crashes down the night he witnesses his sister’s murder – at the hands of a vampire. He then finds out his family’s secret heritage. They are part of the Slayer Society, a group whose mission is to rid the world of vampires. Jose is their new recruit. As Joss trains, bent on seeking revenge for his sister, he discovers powers that could make him the youngest, strongest Slayer in history. But there is a traitor in the Society, one whose identity would shake Joss to the core …. if he isn’t killed first.

REVIEW

Joss Macmillan (yes, THAT Joss Macmillan) has a tragic past. He once had a little sister, Cecile, who was his reason for living, his only friend. When Joss was ten, Cecile died at the hands of a vampire. Distraught and seeking revenge, Joss began training as a vampire slayer. Now, three years later, Joss prepares to put his skills into action.

If you like action, you will go wild for Joss’ vampire slayer training. There are rituals, explosives, hand-to-hand combat, and agonizing fight scenes. Since vampires are known for not backing down, the training has to be very intense. A pivotal character in Joss’s training is his Uncle Abraham, who pushes him so far I was sure he’d break physically and emotionally. I hung onto every word in the scenes with Joss and Abraham.

The plot takes a turn when suspicions arise as to a possible traitor among the slayers in training. Finger pointing ensues as the slayers become suspicious of each other. Oh, I could just feel the uneasiness.

Not only does Joss learn to be cautious with his trust, he also learns that strength is as important on the inside as on the outside. I think these ideals will shape him as the series goes on and transform him into an epic slayer. I am looking forward to that evolution.

BOOK TRAILER



RATING

5 Loved

COVER COMMENTS

Don’t you just love how the cover goes perfectly with the Vladimir Tod series? There’s that classic vampire smiley face. I love the white background with Joss all done up in his typical boy outfit. Nice!